Sea Otter: 2013 Mountain Bike Gear Preview

Gravity Gradient Carbon Crank

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The Gradient is a feature-packed all-mountain crank. The model uses a 30mm aluminum axle to anchor the platform and Gravity (a division of Full Speed Ahead) says it uses an entirely different manufacturing process to make the carbon arms. It starts with a pre-formed carbon tube into which the crank and pedal inserts are glued before additional layers of foam and carbon are laid over the top. The resulting cranks weigh 848g (with two rings and a guard; no bottom bracket) and are offered with a variety of 10-speed compatible 1x plus guard, 2x plus guard and 3x combos. Two axle lengths will accommodate 68/73mm and 83mm BB widths. The Gradient ships mid summer and should sell for around $400.